New historical marker honors Manchester’s Revolutionary War heritage, celebrating America 250

Robert Luckhardt presenting a flag to descendant of Ebenezer Annable, Kerry Thompson. Photo credit: Glenn Dunn.

submitted by Denise Frost, Historian, Sarah Caswell Angell Chapter, NSDAR 

The Ypsilanti and Sarah Caswell Angell Chapters (NSDAR), together with the Huron Valley Chapter (NSSAR), hosted a marker-dedication ceremony at Bridgewater Center Cemetery on October 11 honoring American Revolutionary War Patriot Ebenezer Annable. The event was part of a nationwide initiative by DAR and SAR Chapters to recognize Revolutionary War patriots ahead of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States (America 250). These ceremonies celebrate the men and women whose courage and sacrifice secured our nation’s independence and ensure their legacies continue to inspire future generations.

October 11 also holds special meaning for DAR members nationwide. It marks the founding of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution in 1890, and is observed each year as the DAR National Day of Service, a time when members across the country give back to their communities in honor of the organization’s mission of historic preservation, education, and patriotism. Elizabeth Heller, Regent of the Ypsilanti Chapter and event coordinator, expressed gratitude for the community’s participation: “It was truly moving to see so many local organizations and residents come together to honor one of the earliest patriots whose service helped shape the freedoms we enjoy today.”

Many members of the Manchester community contributed to the ceremony, including American Legion Post 117 Color Guard; members of the Manchester High School band, directed by Jenna Kezelian; Henry Trout of the Manchester High School band, who performed “Taps”; members of the Manchester National Honor Society advised by Jodie Boehlke; Laurie Fromhart, Supervisor of Bridgewater Township; Rev. Susan Hitts, Pastor of the First United Methodist Church; and Kerry Thompson, a descendant of Ebenezer Annable. Distinguished guests also included representatives from the Michigan State DAR and SAR, along with members of the Michigan State Society SAR Color Guard.

Bridgewater Center Cemetery, where Patriot Annable rests, has had no new burials since 1974 but continues to be beautifully maintained by the township. The dedication highlighted the importance of preserving historic cemeteries as places of reflection and remembrance.

In keeping with DAR’s Day of Service, food donations were collected for Faith in Action at the event. The Sarah Caswell Angell and Ypsilanti Chapters will continue collecting additional donations at upcoming meetings, with a goal of gathering 250 food items — symbolizing 250 years of American independence.

To learn more about joining the DAR or SAR, visit dar.org or sar.org.

Manchester High School under direction of Jenna Karelian. Photo credit: Glenn Dunn.

Speakers: Elizabeth Heller — Regent Ypsilanti Chapter, Rev. Susan Hitts, Carolyn Stubbs — State Recording Secretary–DAR of Michigan, Michael Wolven—Member of Michigan Society C.A.R., Kerry Thompson—descendant, Laurie Fromhart—Bridgewater Township Supervisor, and Dennis Schlemmer—Director Huron Valley SAR Chapter. Photo credit: Denise Frost.

Ebenezer Annable headstone and marker. Photo credit: Glenn Dunn.

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by Sara Swanson

Sara Swanson is an editor, writer and a founder of the Manchester Mirror.